What's Happening?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is launching the third and final phase of the 2025 Agricultural Resource Management Survey (ARMS) in late December. This phase is focused on collecting comprehensive
data on farm economics across the United States. The survey aims to gather detailed information on farm production costs, expenses, and financial conditions. NASS plans to contact nearly 40,000 producers nationwide to ensure accurate and reliable results. The survey includes specific questionnaires targeting the costs of production and expenditures for cotton, hog, and broiler operations. This data collection effort is crucial for understanding farm operations and supporting research that informs agricultural policies and programs at both local and federal levels. Participation in the survey is protected by federal law, ensuring confidentiality for all respondents.
Why It's Important?
The data collected through the ARMS survey is vital for informing decisions on agricultural policies and programs that impact farms and farm families across the United States. By providing a clearer picture of production expenses for key agricultural sectors, the survey supports sound agricultural decision-making. The information gathered will be used to produce the annual Farm Production Expenditures report, scheduled for release on July 24, 2026. This report will offer valuable insights into national farm spending trends, helping researchers, policymakers, and agricultural organizations better understand farm finances and economic challenges. The survey's findings are essential for developing strategies to support agriculture and rural communities, ensuring that policies are based on accurate and up-to-date data.
What's Next?
In February, NASS interviewers will begin reaching out to farmers who have not yet responded to the survey. The collected data will be analyzed and published by USDA’s Economic Research Service, providing further insights into farm finances. The results will help shape future agricultural policies and programs, potentially influencing funding allocations and support mechanisms for farmers. As the survey progresses, stakeholders in the agricultural sector will be keenly observing the findings to adjust their strategies and operations accordingly. The final phase of the 2025 survey is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of U.S. agriculture.
